Patellar Tendonitis

Iontophoresis Protocol: Patellar Tendonitis

Patellar tendonitis is the result of inflammation of the patellar tendon at its attachment at the inferior pole of the patella (usually in late adolescence to age 40), or at the base of the patella (commonly after age 40). The region from the inferior apex of the patella to the tibial tuberos­ity is called the patella tendon, or quadriceps tendon, and/ or the patellar ligament.

The patella tendon commonly becomes overused and inflammed in jumping, both during take off and landing. Additionally, females are more predisposed to this overuse injury due to their relative increased genu varum knee position. Patella malalignment, patella alta (high riding patella) or excessive pes planus (foot pronation) can be causative factors in patellar tendonitis. In gait during heel rise to toe off, if the foot is in a pes planus position and does not demonstrate subtalar supination, there will be a medial rotary force on the tibia. This will result in an increased obliquity in the patellar tendon and tendonitis will likely follow.

Typical Drug Electrode Sites

Typical Dispersive Pad Sites

Pain can be felt at rest, during activity, or on palpation of the patellar tendon.